Practice, Advocacy, and Outreach: Perspectives on Addiction Services

Abstract

This chapter addresses the concepts of practice, advocacy, and outreach as they pertain to addiction and/or substance abuse. A medical model is adapted when addressing addiction to substances. American Society of Addiction Medicine, (2016a) notes, 'Addiction is characterized by inability to consistently abstain, impairment in behavioral control, craving, diminished recognition of significant problems with one's behaviors and interpersonal relationships, and a dysfunctional emotional response'. Understanding these elements of addiction as defined, gives clarity to how assessments are conducted, how treatment is administered, and how the recovery process unfolds. In addressing the concept of practice, the chapter highlights many levels of care and notes Health insurance and the involvement of the Affordable Care Act as pivotal in substance abuse treatment. The chapter addresses the professional awareness of the practitioner, with some attention given to cultural sensitivity and cultural competency. It discusses the ethical codes that are specific to social workers and Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors as they relate to substance abuse practice. The chapter illuminates the ethical issues as linked to advocacy in the field of addiction. It acknowledges the last concept of outreach activities, syringe exchange programs, condom distribution, sponsorship in 12-step fellowship, and guest speaking/presenting as relevant. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved)